EXCLUSIVE: Celebrity chef Cat Cora reveals how she became ‘BUDDIES’ with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle — after being asked by mutual friend Oprah to cook for the Duke’s birthday

Celebrity chef Cat Cora has revealed the rather surprising way she became “buddies” with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as she talked to Lance Armstrong about the most famous songs on their phones during an upcoming episode of Stars on Mars.

The Iron Chef star, 56, got candid about how she was introduced to the famous couple during a chat with former professional cyclist Armstrong.

In an exclusive clip of Monday night’s episode, Armstrong brought up an earlier conversation where they talked about “the most famous person on your phone.”

One of the big names was Oprah, and Cora stated, “Yes, she texts me every once in a while and asks me if there’s anything I can do. Or I’ll text her on her birthday and stuff like that.’

Rub shoulders: The Iron Chef star, 56, was introduced to the famous couple by Oprah Winfrey; pictured with the Sussexes in May 2022

The TV chief then went on to explain how Oprah linked her to the Duke and the former Suits actress as she continued, “One time last year I heard my phone ring “Oprah is calling” and she said “Cat, it’s Harry’s birthday” – Harry and Meghan, you know – “and I want you to cook for them.”‘

Cora joked about only getting two days notice to sort out what she needed for the birthday meal before moving on: “So I cooked for them and they’ve become buddies.” They are very nice.’

Her comment seemed to surprise Armstrong when he replied, “They are? Interesting.’

Cora then emphasized her love for the late Queen Elizabeth II, to which Armstrong joked, “Girl, you’re from Mississippi.” Why are you talking about the Queen?’

The chef defended herself when she replied, “She was very sweet, she was like an old granny.”

Lance then replied, saying, “We’re Americans,” before the pair shared a laugh.

In May 2022, the chef revealed her acquaintance with the Sussexes after sharing photos of them speaking at a polo match at Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club.

Cora’s caption to the annual Harry East Memorial Tournament revealed how excited she was to be able to attend, writing, “My Pretty Woman dreams came true! I got to dive with my wonderful friends the Duke and Duchess of Sussex this weekend to support local charities on the Santa Barbara polo fields. The Duke and his team have won! Viva Los Padres!!’

Big fan: The TV personality stated that the couple are ‘really nice’; pictured in May 2022

Debrief: The reality star explained everything to fellow Stars on Mars contestant Lance Armstrong

Just months later, she also revealed her admiration for the Queen when she passed away at the age of 96.

She wrote in tribute: “Today the world bids farewell to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the longest reigning female monarch in the world. She was the queen of our generation, but also wife, sister, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

“Her brilliance as a leader in the UK and the world was truly inspiring. She captivated the world with her eloquent words as we got a glimpse into the lives of Her Majesty and the Royal Family.”

She continued, “I have such fond memories of watching her on television in her elegant jewels and beautiful and colorful dresses and suits.

Best Friends: The chef revealed that Oprah Winfrey was the most famous person on her phone and the pair would message each other regularly

Tune in: Stars On Mars returns on Fox next Monday

My heart is with all members of the royal family today. Rest In Peace Your Majesty, God Save The Queen’.

Stars on Mars was filmed in South Australia and saw celebrity ‘astronauts’ living together in a habitat in the desert environment of Coober Pedy in the Australian Outback.

In the previous episode, Cora decided to remove comedian Andy Richter from the ‘Mars’ habitat.

Stars On Mars returns on Fox next Monday.